5. OPEN FORUM HANDOUT 10-20-2014Re -use and Recycle:
Going Green
In Sherburne County
INTRODUCTION
Going green in Sherburne County is a concept that dates back many years. Conservation clubs and ef-
forts to restore land in the County date back as far as the 1930s. Recent efforts, though, clearly show the resi-
dents of Sherburne County are strong supporters of efforts to re -use and recycle. The essays, letters, and docu-
ments published in the following pages suggest that the county may very well be a leader, a steward, in the efforts
to save resources for the future. The essays further reveal the economic value of re -use and recycle. A recent
newspaper report from the Minneapolis Star Tribune noted the recycling efforts in the state of Minnesota "create
37,000 direct and indirect jobs." A leader in the recycling work in the state is Liberty Paper of Becker, herein
Sherburne County.
The first essay, outlining the history of this vital paper company, opens the discussion of the value and
importance of "going green" in Minnesota. From its early history in Golden Valley, to the ground breaking of
the LPI plant in Becker, to its most recent enhancements, the LPI story documents a fascinating history of com-
pany innovation and involvement.
Following the work of Liberty Paper, essays about efforts from local government, county government,
and private citizens reinforce the ideas that anyone and everyone can be involved in the saving of resources and
recycling used products. The creation of the Sherburne County Municipal Recycling Board (MRB); the work of
Elk River to live up to its title as "Minnesota's Energy City "; Independent School district 728 commitment to
environmental education; the creation of the Landfill Gas Electric Generating Plant; and Sherburne County Gov-
ernment efforts to participate in and promote energy initiatives; all provide interesting stories about the direction
of energy efficiency and re -use and recycling. The final essay, a brief outline by Shari Vensland, illustrates per-
haps the most important idea in this booklet: recycling on the household level can have a huge impact on our
environment.
The same news article documenting jobs in Minnesota noted Minnesotans send over 1 billion
pounds of paper each year into landfills. Ms. Vensland's essay notes the very specific ways in which we can help
reduce the size of landfills and enhance the recycling efforts in Sherburne County, further reinforcing Sherburne
County as a supporter, and leader, of the re -use and recycle movement.
Although programs to conserve and recycle have been part of Sherburne County history for
many decades, the recent efforts bring the past alive. The recent efforts provide an interesting story and update
the history to of Sherburne County to just yesterday.
This booklet was produced through the efforts of a significant number of individuals throughout
the state and county. Polly Filing and other members of the Liberty Paper staff; numerous staff members for
the City of Elk River, ISD 728, and Sherburne County all provided information and resources for this work.
These pages would not have been possible without the efforts of County Commissioner Rachel Leon-
ard. I suspect Rachel is a long time believer in the efforts to recycle and preserve resources for the future. Her
work in developing and promoting the Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant program, along with her efforts to rec-
ognize individuals, and county employees, who have contributed to conservation and energy efficiency show
that Rachel is truly a leader in the conservation, re -use and recycle programs.
Mike Brubaker
Sherburne History Center
September 2014
Liberty Paper: Four Generations of Re -Use and Recycle
Liberty Paper began recycling old corrugated containers into new paper for packaging in its state -of -the
-art mill in 1995, but the Becker company's recycling roots go back almost a century.
It was 1918 when Jack Fiterman, an immigrant from Russia, started out refurbishing burlap sacks and
old wooden crates in his new home Minneapolis. Out of Jack's hard work came Liberty Carton, manufactur-
er of corrugated boxes, located today in Golden Valley. Four generations of Fitermans have grown Liberty
Carton into Liberty Diversified International, a privately held family of companies in the paper, packaging and
promotions; furniture and organization products for the office; building and architectural products; and preci-
sion machining centers industries, of which Liberty Paper, Inc. (LPI) is a key subsidiary.
LPI began as a dream of Jack's son, Ben Fiterman, and grandson, Mike Fiterman (today, chairman and
CEO of Liberty Diversified), to expand into papermaking. In the 1990s, minimills, which required less capital
investment than traditional paper mills, created the opportunity to pursue the dream. For business and envi-
ronmental reasons, the new mill would manufacture recycled, rather than virgin, paper. The city of Becker was
selected as the site for LPI, according to general manager Larry Newell, for its competitive energy rates and
proximity to Xcel Energy's Sherco Plant, from which it draws steam. The city's welcoming attitude and "last,
but not least, the great Minnesota work ethic," also factored into the choice of location, Newell said.
A state -of -the -art Valmet brand paper machine was selected after checking out options from around
the world. The Fitermans nicknamed the machine "The Dream Catcher," after the decorative Native American
hoop and net thought to bring good dreams. In 1997, LPI added a 60,000- square -foot heated storage area for
its raw material —bales of old corrugated containers, known in the trade as OCC.
Newell, an Arkansas native, has been with LPI since groundbreaking for the Becker plant in 1994. He
is an accomplished and seasoned papermaker, beginning in the field right out of high school. LPI was his
fourth green -field mill startup. Newell worked his way up from a superintendent position to general manager
in 1999. Under his leadership, the mill has grown from manufacturing 400 tons to over 700 tons of paper per
day. The themes of LPI's story, he said, are environmental stewardship, product innovation, and commitment
to community.
Old Corrugated Containers into new paper
The heart of LPI's environmental commitment is its unique manufacturing cycle. "We are very proud
that we keep 250,000 tons of material out of the landfill, make it into a value -added product, and put it back into
the market for reuse," Newell said. "It's a complete circle, a great story."
The cycle begins at Liberty Carton, which uses recycled corrugated containers to manufacture its boxes.
LPI collects used corrugated boxes from many sources, including some manufactured by Liberty Carton. LPI's
140 employees complete the cycle by taking the OCC and converting it into a 100 percent recycled paper, called
Kraft liner board, used for new corrugated packaging and other products, such as M -Guard Moisture Barrier, a
100 percent recycled linerboard introduced in 2000, that repels moisture yet looks, feels, corrugates and prints
Eke regular linerboard.
Corrugated containers are the most recycled materials on the face of the earth, said Tim Swanson, LPI's
environmental engineer. (See sidebar.) More than 90 percent of OCC is recovered and recycled. Like Newell,
Swanson is one of the estimated 80 percent of employees present at the mill's startup who still work there.
Obtaining OCC, also known as fiber, is the job of Peg Wander, LPI's fiber procurement manager. Wan-
der had been working on the business and marketing side of the recycling industry for over 20 years when she
came to LPI in 2005. At that time, a separate procurement division, LDI Fibres, was being dissolved and its
function integrated into the mill. Finding new sources of this sought -after commodity is a difficult task when
most of it is already being purchased and recycled, Wander noted.
Historically, the easiest and cleanest sources of fiber have been manufacturers that generate corrugated
containers or large retailers like grocers and other businesses that use many boxes to ship or store their prod-
ucts, Wander explained. With the advent of residential recycling in the late 1980s, she said, "corrugated began
being collected in at the curb," which increased recycling rates.
Initially household recycling required educating consumers to separate cans, bottles, and different kinds
of paper—as well as how to determine what was and was not a corrugated box. This source - separated recycling
yields a desirable high quality source of OCC for recycled paper manufacturers such as LPI. Rather than deal
with the hassle of sorting, however, many households tossed valuable recyclable materials into the trash. To
overcome this barrier to collecting and sorting more material, municipalities are increasingly moving to single
stream recycling. Advances in technology mean all recyclables can be tossed in one container. Haulers take the
unsorted recyclables to materials recovery facilities (MRFs) where they are sorted to end users market specifica-
tions. Plastic, glass, aluminum, and various kinds of paper each have their own end market where they can be
recycled into new products.
Another of Wander's challenges is raising people's awareness that when it comes to recycling, every little
bit is important. "The bales that are received at LPI for processing are the cumulative effect of many individuals'
efforts, it's not just the big - volume guys," she said. LPI began single stream recycling within its own mill on
America Recycles Day in 2012, November 15. "We live by people recycling," Swanson said, "so here on site, we
ought to have single stream recycling for our employees. We even looked at which kinds of bins would best en-
courage recycling. We found that if you put a garbage can with a lid next to an open top recycling bin, people
are going to toss garbage into the recycling bin. We have learned from that let's close both bins."
LPI recently embarked on a partnership with Dem -Con Companies, a Shakopee construction and dem-
olition debris recovery company, on a new state -of -the -art MRF. When the 60,000- square -foot facility opens in
December 2013, it will have the ability to process in one hour 60 tons of fiber and 20 tons of mixed recyclables
obtained from residential and commercial operations. The goal is to provide a steady stream of recyclable mate-
rials to the local marketplace, reducing the amount of materials sent to area landfills. "We are moving along with
recycling life -cycle technology to stay current with the industry," Newell said of the partnership.
Product and process innovation
LPI is constantly looking for new ways to do things that make business and environmental sense for all.
"At this mill, we want to tackle new challenges," Wander said. "We thrive on change, diversity, caring and giv-
ing. We are very fortunate to have that environment and culture." In 1998, LPI received its first major award,
the Governor's Award for Excellence in Waste and Pollution Prevention, for recycling rubber mats, pallets,
plastic totes and starch bags, and for a program that reduces power usage from idling machines.
A satisfying challenge involves finding uses for the 10 percent of material that gets mixed in the waste
bales and can't be used by LPI: wire that the bales are tied with, plastic (milk jugs, six -pack holders), and cellulo-
sic fiber. "One of our goals over our history is, rather than that stuff going into the landfill— remember we kept
90 percent out—is to find a better use for this material," Newell said.
The wire can be chopped up and used for scrap metal. The plastic is purchased by a Minnesota power -
generating cooperative for BTU value. And the cellulosic fiber? In fall 2011, LPI joined forces with two other
companies to collect, dry, and convert it to bedding for cattle, turkeys, and other livestock. The paper fiber ani-
mal bedding can supplement or replace the mix of wood shavings and sunflower seed hulls typically used in
commercial agricultural operations. After material has been used on the farm it can be used to fertilize farm
fields or be used as fuel at a biomass facility. It's also used for mulch. "It's a win - win," Newell said.
LPI created its Dreamworks Coating Solutions division as another avenue for innovation and profitabil-
ity. One of its products is the eco- friendly Freezer Release Coating, introduced in 2010, which eliminates the
petroleum -based wax coating customarily required for meat packaging used in sub -zero environments. Because
of the product's formulation, linerboard coated with this product can be recycled.
The largest and most recent milestone in LPI's history is the on -site wastewater pre- treatment facility,
opened in fall 2012. The $12 million operation represents LPI's largest capital investment since the mill was
built and is the solution to a tricky dilemma. As papermaking operations grew, so did the use of water, straining
the capacity of the Becker industrial wastewater treatment facility. (Today, the mill uses about 550,000 gallons
of water each day.)
The short -term solution was to haul via truck a portion of the plant's wastewater to a treatment plant in
St. Paul. At the height of this two -year endeavor, 23 trucks a day were traveling 40 miles each way for pro-
cessing. In the meantime, planning began for the long- term solution, an anaerobic digester that treats water on
-site before it is routed to Becker's wastewater treatment plant. "This is huge from an operational perspective,"
Newell said, "but even more so from a financial one. It also helped us retain jobs, become more efficient and
cost - competitive, and allowed for internal expansion."
The pretreatment plant is also equipped with the potential for additional energy savings. "One of the
byproducts of the process is methane gas," Newell explained. "We initially planned to capture that gas, put it
through a generator, and produce some of the electricity needed to power the mill. Unfortunately, things be-
came complicated technology -wise and cost - wise." When the conditions are right, however, the capacity to
generate energy is there.
Construction of the water pretreatment plant was a cooperative effort among Liberty Paper, the City of
Becker, Sherburne County, the St. Paul Port Authority, Xcel Energy, and the Initiative Foundation, a regional
resource for job creation and economic development based in Little Falls. In 2013, the Economic Develop-
ment Association of Minnesota presented its Partnership Award to LPI for the pretreatment facility, calling it
"a unique urban /small town partnership."
Community involvement
LPI's commitment to community begins with the safety of its employees, most of who live in Becker
and surrounding areas, and extends to its wide - ranging support of community activities and philanthropic
causes.
In its first five years of operation, the LPI mill recorded one million hours of operation without a lost -
time incident. In 2005, LPI received the Governor's Safety Award for Excellence in recognition of excellence
in workplace safety and health. In 2010, LPI team members notched 1.5 million hours worked safely with no
lost time, a record that dated to March 2004.
In 2012 LPI received the CEO Cancer Gold Standard, an accreditation that recognizes the commit-
ment of the organization to reducing the risk of cancer for employers and their families. LPI transitioned to a
smoke -free workplace, offers resources for employees to quit, and champions the "Relay for Life" cancer fund-
raising event, and other contributions.
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Connections between community and mill start early. Every first grade class at Becker elementary school
has toured the plant since it opened -- an estimated 2,500 students. In fact, some of those who toured as first
graders now work at the mill, Swanson noted with a laugh. Newell explains LPI's commitment to the tours
including sponsoring the buses—as "a way to create a lifelong relationship with the next generation of Becker
residents, show what we do, and demonstrate our commitment to making our hometown a great place to live
and work."
LPI is a leading sponsor of Becker school district's Environment Reading Program. Middle school stu-
dents who read and give a talk on at least one of the hundreds of books the school district purchased with a
grant from LPI have a chance to win prizes. In 2011, for the first time in program every student participated.
(Pizza lunch for the class was the incentive!) Students who read three books and write an essay are invited for a
tour of the mill and pizza lunch and compete for top -three essay honors.
In 2011, LPI provided the financial support needed for Becker High's marching band, slated for elimina-
tion for budgetary reasons, to continue for four years. A new LPI sponsorship activity in 2013 was the Becker
High School robotics team. LPI engineers successfully mentored team members to a regional championship at
Mariucci Arena at the University of Minnesota, besting 60 other teams from across the state.
Since 2001, a team of LPI employees, representing all areas of plant, selects the majority of LPI's com-
munity initiatives financial and participatory. When asked to describe them, Erica Naughton, human resources
specialist, said, "I don't know where to start, there are so many!" Not surprising (though of course she was soon
able), as a list of these activities, ranging from Adopt -a- Family, Habitat for Humanity, Becker Food Shelf, and
contributions to the police and fire departments and civic festivals, takes up multiple pages.
From 2010 through 2012, 100 percent of LPI employees contributed to the United Way, and in 2013
they were on their way to a fourth perfect record. "We are part of the United Way St. Cloud group and compa-
nies there ask me all the time how we get the participation rate we do," Newell said.
"Other companies are giving, but this one is like no other," Naughton said. "We never have any real
challenge to get people to participate and give," Wander concurred, as did Newell. "The number one thing that I
tell people about where I work is how proud I am at the amount of giving these people give back to the commu-
nity, both monetarily and in -kind. I've never seen an organization that is that way. It's not an arm - twisting cam-
paign, it comes from the heart."
For all these reasons, LDI was recognized as a National Standard Top Workplace in the Star Tribune
Top Workplaces list for 2013, meaning it scored above average when benchmarked against manufacturing facili-
ties similar size.
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LPI: Recycle is The Company Core
Liberty Paper's commitment to environmental sustainability and product stewardship is at the
company's core, says LPI environmental engineer Tim Swanson:
"We are a 100 - percent - recycled paper mill. We've never cut down a tree to make paper, but we choose to go above and be-
yond. We prove our claims of environmental sustainability through certifications and third -party audits. We have Forest Stewardship
Council (FSC) Chain -of- Custody certification, which traces the path of products from sustainable forests through the supply chain.
"We are 1 S 140001 - certified. ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization. It's a voluntary approach to
environmental regulation. Certified organizations set their own targets and performance measures. This provides our stakeholders with
proof that our environmental impact is being measured and continually improved.
"One of our ISO goals is to reduce water and electricity usage, since we are a large user of both. We met and exceeded our
goals to reduce electricity use by 5 percent and water use by 20 percent per ton of paper. Finding alternative uses for the material we
can't use to make paper is also part of our ISO 14001 certification. So is our environmental reading program in the Becker schools,
among other things. [see main story]
"We aren't required to be ISO - certified. This is one of many things that we do at LPI because it's the
right thing to do, not because we have to."
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Editor's note: The follow'ng is a letter to the editor published in Elk River Star News, April 23, 2011
County employees find ways to save money
Our country departments and employees come up with various ways to save money (tax dollars
while providing energy efficiency. When our 1979 hot water boiler was wearing out, Kevin Ander-
son, building facilities director, started to plan to replace them with water boilers with operating
efficiency of almost 98 percent. Dave Lucas, solid waste administrator, realized there was a poten-
tial ARRA grant (which we received) due to meeting the purpose of the "stimulus: grant which
are: reduce greenhouse gas emissions and buy American.
So the project cost $266,924, the grant portion being $88,532, an energy rebate $16,400 and an
annual energy savings of $32479, making this a win -win project with five -year payback on our in-
vestment. This project allows future additions to be covered by our boiler system. The old boilers
were recycled. Finally, extensive reporting data and consumption data was and is generated.
In these days small and victories like this are welcome. So, I say let us keep finding similar projects
so the taxpayer can win again
Rachel Leonard, county commissioner
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The Sherburne County
Municipal Recycling Board
A Model of Efficient and
Effective Use of Public Monies
In order to improve recycling opportunities for residents, and to facilitate the sharing and acquisition of munici-
pal equipment and tools, the cities o£ Becker, Big Lake, Zimmerman, and Elk River established the Sherburne
County Municipal Recycling Board (MRB) by adopting a joint powers agreement.
Since the establishment of the MRB, which occurred January of 1999, Sherburne County has provided
SCORE Grants to offset the cost of managing the four separate compost sites, and to ensure that the residents
of Sherburne County benefit from this service free of charge.
Score Grants are monies that the counties receives annual from the State of Minnesota for the purposes
set forth in Minn. State Statute 115A.557. Basically, these monies are to be used for the development and imple-
mentation of solid waste (garbage) reduction, recycling initiatives, household hazardous waste programs, educa-
tional programs, problem material management, and processing of solid waste.
SCORE Funds have historically funded the grinding and chipping costs of yard wastes (grass clippings,
leaves, garden clippings) along with wood wastes (brush and logs) that are received at the four municipal com-
post sites in the county. In 2011, Sherburne County provided MRB with additional funding for the installation
of an automated gate, thus preventing unauthorized use and illegal dumping. These site improvement projects
were implemented in a two year phase.
These four municipal compost sites receive an increasing amount of yard and wood waste each year from
County residents, who benefit greatly from this free service. The ability for these four cities to work together,
and share equipment and services at the benefit of the residents of this County is a model of efficient and effec-
tive use of public monies worthy of emulating.
14
ELKRIVER 1
ENERGYCITY
�� O SrRA7H�{G TIE POWER OF FFFICiFNT 6
Elk River, Minnesota's Energy City
About Elk River Energy City
Energy City is a designation granted to the City of Elk River by the State of Minnesota in
2006. The City of Elk River acts as a hub for the demonstration of sustainable, energy
efficient building and manufacturing. An emphasis is placed on recycling, and reuse of
products and byproducts. As part of this designation, the City established an Energy City
Commission, including local environmentalists, businesses, utilities, and governmental
entities to identify solutions and communicate practices by demonstrating, promoting, and
educating the public on renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Major Energy- City Partners
Energy City has had a number of partners over
the years. These partners are integral in the
success of Energy City by providing knowledge, expertise, demonstration products,
membership on the Energy City Commission,
and financial assistance.
• CenterPoint Energy
. Elk River Ford Dodge Jeep
• The Chuba Company
• Elk Raver Landfill — Waste
• City of Elk River
Management
• Clean Energy Resource Teams
■ Elk River Municipal Utilities
(CBRTs)
. Great River Energy
• Connexus Energy
• KinSaile Technologies
• CornerStone Auto Resource
• Resource Recovery Technologies
Group
• ECONAR Energy Systems
• Elk River Area Chamber of
Commerce
• Elk River Area School District 728
• Elk River Area Chamber of
Commerce
(RRT)
• Sherburne County
• Suburban Northwest Builders
Association
• Trane
• Ulteig
History of Elk River Energy City
1994 Minnesota Environmental Initiative (ME1) created Energy Alley (a concept based on
Medical Alley's success in Rochester) to promote Minnesota's energy businesses. (Minnesota
is second in the nation only to California for the number of energy related companies).
1995 MEI conducted a statewide search for a stand alone city to act as Energy Alley's
geographical focal point for demonstrating energy efficient and renewable energy
technology, services and products.
15
1996 The City of Elk River was selected from over 30 other applying communities to be
Energy City. The reasons Elk River was selected include:
1. Its history of acting proactively regarding environmental issues Elk River has
numerous environmentally sensitive industries, which it learned to regulate for the
protection of its citizens while maintaining the attitude of alloNving business to do
business.
Its history of energy related issues, e.g.
• Hydropower dam completed in 1916 bringing electrical power to Elk River.
• Headquarters of United Power Association (now GRE), second largest generation
and transmission electric utility in Minnesota.
• Home of the nation's first rural nuclear power plant (built in 1960, decommissioned
in 1968) and the first nuclear power plant in Minnesota.
• Refuse derived fuel (RDF) processing plant (built in 1988)
• RDF powered power plant (converted to burn RDF in 1989)
3. Its demonstrated ability to get community leaders, other governmental
entities, and local businesses to work together in support of Energy City
2004 Energy Alley has faded from the scene, but Energy City continues on spirited by the
commitment of its partners and the financial backing of the City of Elk River
2005 Elk River City Council establishes the Energy City Commission with representatives
from the City of Elk River, Elk River Municipal Utilities, Elk River Schools, Energy - related
businesses, the Elk River Landfill, City Council, and the Chamber of Commerce
2006 Energy City gains state approval to trademark its logo and the names "Energy City"
and "Elk River Energy City"
2007 Representative Thomas Hackbarth and Senator Michael jungbauer coauthor a bill to
designate Elk River as "Minnesota's Energy City"
2008 Energy City gains Federal approval to trademark its logo and the names "Energy City *"
and "Elk River Energy City"
Energy Cite' Demonstrations
Energy City has gained a critical mass of energy demonstrations by providing technical
assistance, monitoring, expert third party, analysis, promotion, and a common location to
showcase energy efficient and renewable energy technologies, products and services.
Some of the more notable Energy City demonstrations to date have included:
Energy Houses 1, I1, and III built with energy efficiency and green building practices
• Energy House [ vas a Gold Medal winner at the National Home Builders
Association's convention in 1998
• Energy House III received the Building Excellence Award at the Structural Insulated
Panel Association Convention in 2006
• Energy House III received the Governor's MN GREAT Award in 2006
Landfill Gas -to- Electricity Facility uses methane gas from the decomposition of the
landfill to power 4 generators 24/7
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• The original plant received the US Environmental Protection Agency's Landfill
Methane Outreach Program's project of the year award in 1998
• The new, and much larger, Landfill Gas -to- Electricity Power plant received the
Governor's 1YIN GREAT Award in 2006. This plant produces 15% of Elk River's
electrical needs from an otherwise wasted resource!
Wind Energy Project is a utility -scale wind generator
■ The Vestas V47 was constructed in 2001 as a demonstration site for Energy City.
The 213 -ft high wind turbine produces 660 k%V which supplies enough energy for
100 homes
Great River Energy's Resource Processing Plant
• Everyday trash is hauled from the curb and turned into burnable fuel, or resource
derived fuel (RDF'). GRE sorts out recyclable metals and shreds material which is
then taken to GRE's Elk River Energy Recovery Station
Great River Energy's Energ7 Recovery Station
• RDF is burned to produce up to 29 MW of electricity, enough to power 25,000
homes. By using RDF, 1,000 tons ofwaste is kept out of the landfill every day!
LEED- Certified Buildings (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green
Building Rating System is a voluntary national standard for developing high -
performance, sustainable buildings. Annual energy costs are 509/6 less than the average
costs of a building with comparable size
• Twin Lakes Elementary Gold LEED Certified
• Rogers High School
• Westwood Elementary
• Elk River Library Gold LEED Certified
More.
• First city to convert completely to LED traffic lights
• Environmental Learning Center complete with recycled products, presentation
space, an energy efficiency demonstration bike, and more.
• Geothermal system in the Public Safety Building
• Bio- digester operation at the Haubenschild Farm
• Other uses of recycled materials, efficient lighting, green building techniques, etc.
Education
Elk River Energy City has added an additional focus beyond demonstrations. It is dedicated
to educating the public regarding ,vise energy decisions. Throughout the years, numerous
tours of Energy City have been given to a variety groups ranging froth Minnesota's school
children to engineers and business people from RussiaJapan, and Sweden to State
Legislators and other politicians. After touring the actual demonstration sites, the
Environmental Learning Center at the Elk River Landfill may be used to provide a
traditional classroom setting to impart more detailed information. Sherburne County, the
Elk River Landfill, and Elk River Municipal Utilities cooperated in building the
Environmental Learning Center for this sole purpose. Upon request, Energy City staff will
attend area schools, businesses, and organizations for discussions. Additionally, Energy City
is represented at various forums, panels, expos, fairs, and other events in the area, expanding
the educational reach.
Other Projects
Project Conserve is an outreach and education program designed to teach residents simple
ways to conserve energy, save money on their heating, electrical, and water bills, reduce
landfilled waste, save on transportation, and live an overall greener lifestyle. The program is
17
free; the knowledge is invaluable. Project Conserve has received numerous awards From
Harvard University, the Recycling Association of 141N, the League of MN Cities, and the
MN Municipal Utilities Association.
Projected goals of reduction are set at the following over five years;
• Reduction in electric use of 20%
• Reduction in water use of 25%
• Reduction in home heating fuel of 109f6
• Reduction in garbage of 25%
• Reduction of gasoline use of 25%
Energy City High 5's Local businesses may apply for an Energy City High 5 award by
completing any number of 40 eco- friendly actions which earn award points. There are three
levels of awards based on points achieved. Businesses receive a plaque and sticker to place in
their front door and are recognized on the City of Elk River website and at City Council
meetings.
F.ner;rl City Furunis Energy City has organized numerous business and community
forums regarding various topics on energy efficiency and renewable technologies in the past
and continues to provide the FREE forums as an education outreach tool.
Rebates and Grants Energy City provides an updated list of local, state, and federal rebates
and grants available for energy efficiency, renewable energies, green building, etc. for homes
and businesses.
Loans Energy city continues to provide financial resources for businesses interested in
energy efficiency, renewable technologies, and green jobs
• I lic I`ncrg�' I'.Ittclencl' Improvcmcm Prownmi is a loan through the City of Elk
Rivet's Economic Development Authority to provide capital to businesses to invest
in energy efficiency and save money on energy expenses by creating green jobs.
• The I'ropertl- Assessed Cleans F'.ncrp Li an� I'.1['I• :� are provided through
Sherburne County and the St. Paul Port Authority to provide financing to business
and homeowners interested in energy efficiency and renewable energy
improvements.
-or more information, visit http:llelkril ermn.gol'findcl.aspX ?NID =739, email
elu rs� =; eitt ct cll;ril crtnrt.i >or, or call the City of Flk River at 761635, to(h)
18
W 728's environmental commitment has led it to embrace emerging technology and the most up to date building standards.
Accordingly, the district has embraced environmental education, comprehensive recycling and energy efficiency across all of
Its campuses. The driving force behind these policies is ISa 728's commitment to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars.
"We stronqly believe our students, staff and communities at iarae can embrace emeraino environmental
19
Vaughn Dierks, a partner at Wold Architects and Engineers in St. Paul, the firm that designed Westwood's expansion,
explains energy efficiency has never been easier. "Anytime you start out with a new building project, you are in a much
easier position at approaching different energy efficiency opportunities than when you are renovating," Dierks says. "It is
essentially a clean slate, and you are able to consider different alternatives and how they will potentially impact operational
costs." Dierks also notes Wold's close working relationship with ISD 728 allows for an open dialogue that ultimately led to a
better Westwood.
As for how rapidly environmental building practices are changing, Dierks notes emergir
technologies provide advanced solutions that didn't exist even a decade ago. Ultimatell
Dierks says, designs like those at Westwood make it easier for everyday people to
become more efficient. "Probably the single most significant way is in measurements
and controls," Dierks adds. "The operating systems utilize digital control management
that not only regulates optimum performance but also allows for greater interface
with the equipment to adjust settings and take advantage of potential savings. When
you combine this with an infrastructure designed for efficiency the results can be very
substantial."
Another unique feature at Westwood, according to Dierks, is the school's air delivery
system. Unlike the traditional method that supplies air through two to four mechanical d
the ceiling, which is often loud and stirs up contaminates, Westwood's system uses ind
"Large ducts are located in the corners of the room delivering fresh air at a very low velocay into the room ai ine
floor level," Dierks says. "As the air heats up and rises it is carried upward to return ducts at the ceiling, bringing
with it contaminants from within the space." Dierks adds such a system offers numerous benefits, including:
A much better environment free of drafts and blowing air, as well as fewer germs and other airborne particles.
A more consistent temperature throughout the room.
A quieter space and a greater efficiency with the unit delivery in that it is not forced to blow the air so far into
the space for coverage.
"This system was not only replicated in the addition but also in subsequent renovation work throughout the district,"
Dierks adds.
The district strives to be good stewards of the funds entrusted to them
by the taxpayers. This has resulted in an annual review process of
approaches, implementation strategies and on -going investments to
continue to focus on education, operations and quality of environment
for all students and staff.'
Bezek says Westwood provides an example for upcoming construction and re- modeling tasks.
"Westwood is a source of pride for us," he explains. "It's also a model for future projects."
1 , Al;A io i r, At., A, k A;1; Ji 4 AALi, 4 v r X14 4 A Jltry 4 ,L Ail Yid il 1iLtut�Y �irl�+f�i ►l+li!';rJl`s 1� � �111� 11�
20
TWIN LADES LEER CERTIFIED
ISD 728's environmental and economic stewardship isn't limited to just Westwood Elementary.
In May 2012, Twin Lakes Elementary also earned LEED certification. Twin Lakes, located in
Elk River, earned LEED certification thanks in part to its energy use, lighting, water and
1, material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. A 15 -page
report provides ratings for the school's sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and
atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environment.
iAJ'► Built in 2007, Twin Lakes was designed to be environmentally cutting edge. Twin Lakes Principal Dan
Collins says the school's high level of energy efficiency allows its staff to educate, inspire and empower
students about the environment. "Each year I meet with the third- graders to talk about their school and to
give them a tour," Collins says.1 have the opportunity to talk with students about day lighting, slanted ceilings,
solar tubes, recycled material used to build our school and water reduction, so this certification is not only an
honor, it is a learning tool."
NUMBERS MATTER
Brian Menth, ISD 728's Purchasing Manager, says each month as much as 30 percent
of the district's total waste is sorted and recycled, equaling about 12 cubic yards. The
district's recycling numbers continue to grow. "Recycling is up over twenty percent on
year," Menth explains.
Menth adds the district has also committed itself to making recycling as easy as
possible for students, staff and visitors and that commitment has had clear benefits. "The
availability of recycling containers throughout the district, and the move to a'no- sort,' or
mixed recycling service has made it easier for all students, staff and the community to
make the right choice and drop their trash into the correct container," Menth says.
r 'I
� ,� �d► ►ti'ti Jrr�l>f � ^�f[� �, � Il~d �l,�i Ji 4 41w 4 L iii, ik, ii kii,iti, �w`lhAil 061,461I i
21
While the district has already done a great deal to better position itself financially and economically,
Baranick adds several upcoming steps are on the near horizon:
» A personal appliance policy to cut energy consumption.
» Additional lighting retrofits.
Continued upgrades of heating and cooling plants as life spans are met.
>> Increased use of building automation to control ventilation rates.
>a Increased emphasis on temperature set points.
Our mission district -wide is to educate, inspire and empower, Bezek
says. Our commitment to energy efficiency, environmental stewardship
and fiscal responsibility helps us fulfill that mission. I )
22
ti ikjiAgii
Landfill Gas to Electric Generating Plant
0
Environmental Learning Center
Sherburne County has historically supported waste to energy initiatives; and, the Landfill Gas Electric
Generating Plant, located at the Elk River Landfill, is yet another example of this County leading by example.
Overview:
In 2002, a Landfill Gas to Electric Generating Plant was installed (through a cooperative agreement be-
tween the Elk River Landfill, Elk River Municipal Utilities, and Sherburne County) at the Elk River Landfill to
collect, filter, and burn methane gas from decomposing waste for energy production. The energy produced is
sold to Great River Energy (GRE). The installation is the result of several years of planning by the three part-
ners. Two phases of operation were designated. Initially, three 800 Kilowatt Caterpillar engine- generators were
installed in the 5,100 square foot (state of the art) power plant which have produced 20 million kilowatt -hours of
energy annually. The second phase was initiated when, in June 2006, a fourth engine- generator was installed at
the facility. The addition of the fourth engine- generator increased annual energy output to an average of 26 mil-
lion kilowatt -hours (enough to supply about 15% of the population of Elk River with all their energy needs
through a renewable energy source at that time). Since the addition of the fourth engine, the City of Elk River
has grown, including that of two data centers both of which are large energy users. As a result of this growth in
population, and increase demand in energy use, current production from the plant is now meeting 9% of the
City's electrical needs.
The Fuel Source:
Each day, trucks deliver garbage to the Elk River Landfill, located in the City of Elk River, Sherburne
County MN. This garbage breaks down /decomposes, and a by- product of this decomposition is landfill gas. Elk
River Landfill's gas is comprised of 52% methane, 40% carbon dioxide, and 8% other. Methane, a colorless,
odorless gas, has long been known as a "greenhouse" gas infamous for contributing to global warming. Large
concentrations of methane can be dangerous due to its combustibility. Unless recovered for alternative uses,
landfill (mostly methane) gas is usually burned off in an open flare to reduce the potential for accumulation to
dangerous levels.
A Unique Public and Private Partnership:
Resulting from several discussions, Waste Management (Elk River Landfill owner /operator) and Sher-
burne County were able to facilitate an arrangement that allowed Elk River's landfill gas to be used as a renewa-
ble resource; by burning the gas for fuel (to produce electricity), methane production became a beneficial by-
product rather than a detriment to the environment. Each engine currently burns 330 cubic feet of gas per mi-
23
nute (nearly 694 million cubic feet of methane per year when all four engines are on -line). Methane will continue
being generated for over 30 years, and as future cells within the landfill are closed, they will be added to the me-
thane recovery system which will increase the longevity of the project, and ensure a continual supply of gas. By
burning landfill gas for energy production, the county further realized its long standing policy to support waste
to energy initiatives, as well as reduce the need for fossil fuel driven facilities.
Indeed, the Sherburne County Board at that time recognized the inherent environmental and social ben-
efits, which included utilizing a by- product of the Elk River Landfill, and conversion of that by- product into a
useable product /renewable resource, and adding power onto the grid at a time when the State of MN was (is)
experiencing the need to import power.
The partnership of the three entities (ERMU, Elk River Landfill, and Sherburne County) also serves as
shining example for others to emulate. By working together, we have shown how a project of this magnitude can
become a reality, and a success!
The Loan:
An agreement between the Elk River Municipal Utility (ERMU) and Sherburne County was established
by setting up a loan (in March 2002) of approximately $2.9 million (with no interest) through Sherburne Coun-
ty's landfill surcharge fund to finance the landfill gas to electric power plant. This loan provides a twenty year
repayment schedule for the ERMU. Payment amounts are calculated based upon the energy production of the
facility and set forth in the agreement. The cost of the installation of the fourth engine ($660,000) was included
in the initial loan amount and has been worked into the 20 year repayment plan.
The Environmental Learning Center:
Another unique innovation to this project was the addition of the Environmental Learning Center,
which is attached to the landfill gas to electric power plant. This 720 square foot classroom is used for work-
shops, meetings, and tours for school groups, environmental groups, and the general public about environmen-
tal issues pertaining to landfills, recycling, and electric generation from landfill gas as well as alternative energy
sources (such as wind, animal waste, and refuse - derived fuel for example) and sustainable living practices.
A Success:
The Elk River landfill gas to electric power plant has gained national attention and has been the impetus
for several local installations (within the State) as well as national level projects.
So, if you happen to drive by the Elk River Landfill, you now know that located at this site is the Landfill
Gas to Electric Generating Plant working hard to extract electricity from the typical garbage that is normally dis-
posed of, sometimes without second thought.
24
i L__ ,
Er",
25
Fuel Source
• Landfill gas from
decomposing garbage
• Composed of 52%
methane, 40% carbon
dioxide, 8% other
• 76 collection points
• Estimated 30 year
production life
Landfill Gas to Electric Plant
• 5,100 Sq. Ft. Power Plant
• Contains for 800 kW Caterpillar
engine- generators
• Annual output = 25.5 million kWh
Production equivalent to 9% or
ERMU needs
720 Sq. Ft. Environmental Learning
Center
Eneine- Generators [4]
• 16 cylinder, 1,200 hp Caterpillar
Consume over 1,200 cubic feet per
minute
• Oil change every 750 hours
• Routine engine overhaul semi-
annual and complete overhaul and
refurbish ever 5 years
Generate 4,160 volt AC
0
10008)
6
v�
26
Environmental Learnine
Center
• Meeting room for energy and
environmental workshops
school groups, educators, and
policy makers
Control Room
• Houses controls,
metering, circuit
breakers, and
switchgear to control
integration into the
distribution system.
New high efficient ,boiler have helped the Sherburne County Government Center reduce its
natural gas consumption by 12 percent.
Case Study. Sherburne County Government
Center
New high efficient- boilers sane $1 o,000 in 2012
Aims and objectives. Struggling to maintain and keep two 2- million Btu per hour aging and
inefficient boilers supplied with natural gas, the Sherburne County Government Center in Elk
River sought improvements to save energy and reduce utility bills. It decided to replace the
aging hot water boilers with high efficiency units.
Implementation. The existing boilers` efficiency was estimated at 75 percent. Sherburne
County installed two 91 percent efficient condensing boilers at the 160,000 square -foot
Government Center, built in 1965. Kevin Anderson, Sherburne County building facilities
manager, says they are now able to run the heating system at lower temperatures so that
the return temperature to the boiler is 130 degrees F or below. With the new equipment the
county no longer needs to pay for expensive repairs to the old boilers; just a little preventive
maintenance is needed, he says.
Key to efficient boiler operation —low return water temperatures. Condensing boilers
require a low return water temperature to operate at their highest efficiency, according to
several sources, including information from the Center for Energy and Environment. In
general, heating systems must be able to perform adequately at return water temperatures
below about 130 degrees F in order to obtain boiler efficiencies above 87 percent (see
Figure 1). Thus, the more hours during the heating season that the temperature of water
returning to the boiler can be kept below that value, the higher will be the average seasonal
efficiency. High - efficiency boilers are especially well suited to applications such as snow
melting and in -floor radiant heating, because those applications typically have a large
temperature drop and low return water temperatures.
27
100% ----------------------------------------------------------------
98% f--------------------------- - - - - -- ------ - - - - -- ------------------ - - - - --
9696 I- - - - - -. -_-------- .---- -- ----- -- - - ------ - - - - - - -- -------------------
f
i
949/7 ------------- --- -----------------
6
c92 % - - - - -- ---------------------------------------------------------
°i Noncondensing mode
d90% ------------------ - - -- - - -- --------------------------------------------
Dew point
'a 889/7 ------------------- - - - - -- -- - -- ------------------------------------------
M
86% -------------------------- - - - - -- - - -- - -- ------ - - - - --
84% --------------------- - - - - -- ----------------------------------------------
Condensing mode
8296 7 - - -- -- --- ----- - - - - -- -- ----------------------------------------------
80%
80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210
Inlet water temperature, degrees F
Figure 1. This graph shows the effect of inlet water temperature on boiler efficiency.
Outcomes— energy saved, operations improved. The savings since the new boiler
installations in fall 2010 are shown in the B3 Benchmarking database. The chart below
(figure 2) shows a savings of $10,000 in 2012 compared to the base year of 2010. The 83
Benchmarking ratio for the Government Center was 203 percent in 2010, meaning it used
more than twice the energy than if it were a new building built to current energy codes. The
B3 Benchmarking ratio today improved to 160 percent, indicating there still may be
opportunities for energy conservation actions.
Sherburne County annual natural gas consumption
2010 365 159,167 174,078
2011 365 159,167 16 7, 612
2012 366 159,167 146,413
174,078 0
176,700 -91088
166,466 - 20,053
0% $111,014.55 $0.64
-5w,j SLM760.56 $0.60
-12% $72,191.31 $0.49
Figure 2. This Minnesota X33 Benchmarking chart shows a 12 percent natural gas savings for
the Sherburne County Government Center since 2010.
28
Documenting results. Sherburne County is able to quantify its savings via the Minnesota
B3 Benchmarking tool. The B3 tool allows users to track their buildings' energy use, monitor
the performance of energy improvements, and readily identify poor energy performance. It is
available for all state, local government, and public school buildings. To add your building to
this database, go to the B3 website and click on "Contact Us."
Funding. Sherburne County received a $100,000 Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block
Grant administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The grant was provided by
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2000, the federal stimulus program
designed to save energy and create jobs. Financing was aided by a rebate of $2,800 from
CenterPoint Energy, Sherburne County's natural gas supplier. Total cost for the boiler
upgrade: $301,500.
Resources for local government projects. Public institutions seeking energy efficiency
improvements are encouraged to consult with the Minnesota Department of Commerce,
Division of Energy Resources (DER) and their local gas or electric utility. DER provides
technical support to local government units, state agencies, school districts, and institutions
of higher learning that are seeking energy efficiency and renewable energy measures.
Contact DER to discuss which of its efficiency programs can be of help.
Utility representatives can help assess opportunities for efficiency and identify what rebates
may help finance projects. Utilities in Minnesota are mandated to achieve an annual energy
savings of 1.5 percent of annual retail energy sales.
An entry on the Natural Resources Canada website called Installing High-Efficiency Boilers
for Heating Plants offers guidelines for purchasing and operating high efficiency boilers. For
more on energy efficiency, including information on Minnesota's B3 Benchmarking tool,
contact the DER Information Center at ener .info state.mn.us or 800- 657 -3710.
29
Sherburne County Public Works Department
Energy Saving Ideas and Implementation
Sherburne County constructed a new maintenance facility in Becker, which opened in June 2008. As part
of the planning and design efforts, Sherburne County evaluated many ideas for incorporating energy saving into
the facility. County staff and consultants explored a wide range in energy saving ideas. While the technology ex-
isted for these ideas, the cost to implement some of these ideas was fairly significant. Because Sherburne County
is fiscally conservative, an analysis of the various systems was conducted to determine which ones were feasible
to be included in the facility from a cost standpoint.
The analysis consisted of determining the initial capital cost, paired with the predicted energy savings. If
energy savings within a five year period exceeded the initial cost, the idea was incorporated into the facility de-
sign. If the payback period exceeded the initial capital cost, the idea was included in the facility. For the five to
ten year payback, the energy saving system was reviewed on a case by case basis. This approach to selecting the
energy saving systems to be incorporated into the design was aimed at keeping the capital cost of the facility
within a managed budget.
The energy saving systems that were included in the facility were an in -floor hot water heating system,
natural light in the form of windows and skylights, and automatic (occupancy) sensors for lighting systems. The
hot water heating system includes hot water heaters that operate at a lower pressure and temperature than tradi-
tional boilers, resulting in a more efficient and lower cost system. The facility includes many windows in the ve-
hicle storage and vehicle maintenance areas of the facility. Besides reducing the electrical use in these areas, it
provides a much brighter and cheerier work space. This has been particularly helpful to the mechanics that
maintain the Public Works and Sheriff's vehicles because it is much easier for them to see what they are working
on. Occupancy sensors have been installed throughout the office area, sign shop, road crew shops, and locker
rooms. When no one is in these spaces, lights are automatically shut off, thus conserving energy.
Sherburne County has also realized a significant energy saving by converting the County's traffic signals
to LED. The County received energy rebates from the electrical utility making the decisions very easy. The re-
sulting energy bills for these traffic signals by utilizing the LED technology are a small fraction of what the in-
candescent bulbs consumed, which was the original installation.
Sherburne County, along with the Hennepin County, Anoka County, and Tri- County (Stearns, Benton,
and West Sherburne counties), began sending Mixed Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) for processing into Refuse
Derived Fuel (RDF) in August, 1989. Processing of RDF occurs at Great River Energy's Resource Processing
Plant, located in Elk River. This RDF is then used as fuel for production of electricity at Great River Energy's
Energy Recovery Facility, also located in Elk River.
30
In keeping with MN State Statutes 115A.02 which is to improve upon solid waste management, Sher-
burne County, along with Anoka County, Hennepin County and Tri- County provided for the retrofitting of
the United Power Association's Elk River Station (know today as Great River Energy's Energy Recovery Fa-
cility) and the construction of Northern States Power, Elk River Resource Recovery Facility (known today as
Great River Energy's Resource Processing Plant). Several agreements were put into place to ensure, among
other requirements, that consistent delivery of MSW from member counties was achieved and that certain
operational standards were met on part of NSP; and, in August of 1989, with everything in place the first
tons of MSW were delivered for processing.
Resulting from that earlier agreement that ended August, 2009 were following achievements:
• 34 million cubic yards of MSW processed; enough to fill the Metrodome 33 times.
• 4.1 million tons of coal displaced, further reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and reducing our car-
bon footprint.
• 3.9 Million Megawatts of electricity generated; enough to supply 30,000 homes per year.
Upon completion of the 2009 agreement, Sherburne County and GRE negotiated a new processing
agreement that phases out the need for hauler subsidies. The earlier agreement necessitated that the County
subsidize the tipping fee to ensure the continuous supply of MSW by our waste haulers. The County Board
believes that it is in the best interests of its citizens that GRE is able to compete in an open market, free of
County subsidies.
Today, processing continues under the ownership and management of Great River Energy and without
the need for any County subsidies. Several improvements have been made to increase the overall operational
standards thereby further reducing the number of tons landfilled and ensuring continued efficient energy re-
covert' from our MSW that produce.
The County's overall solid waste management program emphasizes the "Three R's ": reduce, reuse, and
recycle; and, although an impressive amount of recycling is achieved, the need for processing remains as im-
portant today as did in 1989.
Elk River Resource Recovery Facility
"20 Years of Mokin£r Light of Ggr&Oge°
August 19th, 1989 to August 19th, 2A09
Can��neinurw!lo�y 20 years afsu —f l ponnerrtiliv In Nv pr i_ f ••n•• +••-• /+"•+•riryau! s", wu _
Y otnl fl _sw ilereiued: 9,43 7, 268 tuns'
Tota1 M5W P--di 7,693,130 tons
Tntal Ref ,— rJe —d Fuel P—duc-ed. ti,41T,000 tons
• Total Coai £315pinced' 4- I miliinn runs
Tntnl Flertririty G—rated: 3.'>- Milli— Mef4a Watts
(enough electricity to supply 30,0DO h— per year)
31
PARTNER5:
Shrrhurne Cnunty
Tri - County (Stearns, Benton, Sher4urnr
Cnunties)
Rnako County
Hennepin c..—ty
RRT's Elk River Resource Recovery Facility
Great River Energy
X-1 Fncryy
Sherburne Joins Clean Energy Program
Sherburne County is excited to announce a partnership with the St. Paul Port Authority to
administer the Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (PACE). PACE allows property
owners to borrow money from newly established municipal financing districts to finance energy
retrofits (efficiency and renewable energy measures). The property owners then repay the loan
through an annual special assessment on their property tax bill. Interested property owners
evaluate measures that achieve energy savings and receive 100% financing which is repaid over
time up to 20 years.
PACE is a financing tool used to assist commercial and industrial businesses (including agri-
business) and multifamily housing properties with improvements that substantially increase
energy efficiency. PACE allows businesses to make these fixture improvements without the up-
front capital outlay. Costs for the improvements are paid back through a special assessment on
their taxes. The increase in property taxes is offset by the decrease in energy costs so that the
business sees no change in the bottom line. Dan Weber (contact person for Sherburne County
Economic Development) said: "Sherburne County is interested in providing opportunities for
our businesses to remain competitive in today's economy. This is one tool that can assist in
reaching that objective."
Sherburne County is committed to helping businesses from all sectors find the resources they
need to thrive. Interested businesses should contact Princeton Community Development
Director, Carie Fuhrman, 763 -389 -2040 or Zimmerman City Administrator, Randy Piasecki,
763i -856 -4666 ext. 24 or visit www.co.sherburne.mn.us.
The Sherburne County Board of Commissioners approved this partnership with the St. Paul Port
Authority at their meeting on May 6, 2014.
32
SHERBURNE COUNTY
Landfill Abatement
F".�]
221 as
I I I I
'NMI
GRANT PROGRAM
Grant Program originated and formulated by
County Commissioner Rachel Leonard and
supported by the County Board of Commissioners
and Solid Waste Department.
33
The Legacy Grant was the idea of Sherburne County Commissioner Rachel Leonard. Her
motivation was to provide help to cities and townships to construct public buildings without
using levy dollars. Her suggestion was to use landfill surcharge dollars and that the County
award grants based on population. The Sherburne County Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant is
able to award up to $1 million each year to cities and townships whose building or construction
projects meet a minimum of at least 25 % post - consumer recycled materials. Grant amounts are
based on September 2006 populations at $100 per capita. The recipients (Sherburne County
cities and townships) are eligible for reimbursement only on the cost of the post- consumer
recycled materials used in their projects. This idea was supported by the other County
Commissioners, the County Administrator, and the County Solid Waste Officer, Dave Lucas.
So far, three Landfill Abatement Legacy Grants have been awarded to Sherburne County
Municipalities. Santiago Township, who submitted application for the 2006 fiscal year, was
approved to construct a new multi- purpose facility. Big Lake Township and the City of Elk
River were both awarded grants. Big Lake Township added a 24' x 68' addition to their town
hall. The City of Elk River constructed a new public YMCA.
All three projects required a great deal of teamwork. All three award winners worked closely
with Sherburne County staff, the Sherburne County Solid Waste Advisory Committee, their
architects and builders, and especially with residents of each municipality.
Benefits to the Environment:
By encouraging cities and townships in Sherburne County to incorporate post - consumer recycled
materials in their building projects, we are trying to improve markets for post- consumer recycled
materials. It is our primary goal to reduce the amount of waste being brought to the area
landfills. This program would recognize post - consumer recycled products, which are currently
in the marketplace. Post- consumer recycled materials could include, but are not limited to,
recycled concrete, recycled wood, plastics, fiber materials, reclaimed and re- milled lumber,
reprocessed paint, milled bituminous, steel products, windows, shingles, and many other post -
consumer recycled building features and amenities. By reducing our dependency of landfilling
waste items, we hope to encourage a larger market for manufacturers who are using building
materials that have been diverted from the landfills and re -made into quality building products.
Commitment and Leadership in Pollution Prevention:
On ,February 6, 2007, the Sherburne County Board of Commissioners approved Santiago
Township's Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant Application, Santiago Township applied to build
a new multi - purpose facility that will contain a fire station, town meeting room, and sheriff's
office sub - station. Santiago Township was awarded $173,800 to off -set the cost of post -
consumer recycled materials. By accepting the grant, Santiago Township will provide
certification to Sherburne County that at least 25 % of the structure is made from post - consumer
recycled material.
The second issued Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant was awarded to Big Lake Township on
August 21, 2007. Big Lake Township was awarded $61,000 for a 24' x 68' addition to their
town hall. The addition will include a new meeting room, new administrative offices, a work
34
area, and a climate - controlled storage area for archived records. The total cost of the addition is
estimated at $199,000 with the awarded $61,000 fiom the grant used for recycled materials used
in the project.
The third Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant was awarded in early September; the Sherburne
County Board of Commissioners approved a two million dollar Landfill Abatement Legacy
Grant, given out over three years, to the City of Elk River for the construction of a new YMCA.
The grant, which will be applied toward the bonds for the YMCA and in turn reduce the size of
levy needed over the next six years. According to Bill Maertz, Elk River Parks and Recreation
Director, more than 25% of the materials used in the construction project will be from recycled
materials. Maertz also stated that during the bidding process, bidders were required to submit
how much recycled material would be used. (Elk River Star News, September 12, 2007) With
the grant money, Elk River City Administrator, Lori Johnson, stated that the grant money will be
applied to taxes for the next six years. (Elk River Star News, September 12, 2007)
Innovation:
Minnesota Statute 115A919 requires counties to set aside monies for financial assurance and
landfill abatement purposes. Sherburne County sees this program as a unique opportunity to
implement landfill abatement. The Sherburne County Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant is
believed to be the first program in Minnesota of its kind. It is an opportunity for County
residents to see a portion of their garbage fees redistributed throughout the County. It also
increases the marketability of post - consumer recycled materials and will encourage more
manufacturers to create and continue creating products produced from post- consumer recycled
materials.
2006 RAM Award (see Attachment A):
Individuals or recent programs contributing to the betterment of recycling or other resource conservation
efforts in the State of Minnesota are eligible for RAM Awards. In 2006, Sherburne County
Commissioner Rachel Leonard received the Public Service Award for her efforts to promote the uses of
recycled materials in public buildings in her County.
2008 Governor's Awards for Waste and Pollution Prevention (See Attachment B):
Sherburne County Solid Waste Department — Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant received Honorable
Mention for this award:
A Model for Others:
The idea of reimbursing cities and townships for building community centers such as libraries,
town halls, and fire stations, that have been constructed using a minimum of 25% post - consumer
recycled materials, will have a positive effect on all cities and townships that take advantage of
this program. Sherburne County feels that by promoting a public building that has been built
using post- consumer recycled materials, community members will ask questions and examine
the quality of the buildings. Sherburne County feels that county residents will see that recycled
products are just as appealing, and durable as virgin products. The number of building products
using recycled materials is growing, however, these products tend to be more expensive than
virgin products. This makes it difficult for city and township officials to justify spending
taxpayer dollars on them. However, by reimbursing municipalities, public awareness will
increase, markets for recycled products will increase, prices for recycled material will decrease,
35
prompting more homebuilders to utilize recycled material in their home projects. Leadership
roles for cities and townships includes consulting with contractors and ensuring that at least 25%
of the structure will be erected using post - consumer recycled material. This program will also
promote public awareness about recycling and inform the community about the benefits of re-
using materials. Government officials who take advantage of this program can host tours and
show other city and township officials that finding post - consumer recycled materials is not as
hard as they may think. With over a hundred companies in Minnesota that incorporate post -
consumer recycled material in their manufacturing, it would give these companies an opportunity
to showcase their products. Whether it be a deck made out of recycled plastic pop bottles or
reprocessed paint used to paint the interior of a structure, manufacturers could inform the public
about their products at informational meetings and/or final tours of the public facility. It
encourages local units of government to examine the benefits of being reimbursed while
protecting the environment and reducing our need for landfills. A township which has an
outdated town hall could improve their building by installing handicap ramps made out of a
recycled wood /plastic mix or a City could build an eco- friendly library utilizing recycled glass
for a brighter building that also cuts down on electricity costs. The Landfill Abatement Legacy
Giant is a model for all cities and townships to consider when preparing comprehensive
city /township plans and future development standards. Perhaps someday all new structures will
be required to contain at least 25% post - consumer recycled materials during the construction
process. Three of the sixteen municipalities in Sherburne County have been awarded grants thus
far. Santiago and Big Lake Townships and the City of Elk River have kept close tabs on the
construction process, with detailed lists of the post - consumer recycled materials being used in
their buildings. Public hearings have been well attended and the public input has been
wonderful. Sherburne County has started creating lists of manufacturers and construction
companies that produce or utilize post - consumer recycled materials and this will allow future
grantees a basis for getting started and carrying out their public improvements.
Sherburne County is home to one of the state's largest landfills, the Elk River Landfill. As such,
we see first -hand the increasing amount of waste being disposed of on a daily basis. Combined
with the fact that Sherburne County is continuing to experience rapid growth and the need for
larger and newer public facilities will only continue to rise, as well. Sherburne County was
motivated to create a program to encourage cities and townships to incorporate post- consumer
recycled materials in their public municipal buildings.
The Sherburne County Landfill Legacy Grant is another example of Sherburne County's
proactive use of landfill surcharge monies. In fact, Sherburne County, Elk River Landfill, and
Elk River Municipal Utilities have partnered together in the construction and operation of
landfill gas (methane) to energy facility. Sherburne County sees the Landfill Abatement Legacy
Grant as another opportunity to further encourage landfill abatement thereby reducing our
dependence on landfills.
The Elk River Landfill, which is owned and operated by Waste Management, has been extremely
supportive in all of Sherburne County's recycling and landfill abatement activities.
36
Economic Benefit:
This program is intended to encourage cities and townships in Sherburne County to incorporate
at least 25% post - consumer recycled material into public used facilities. The benefit for cities
and townships, other than the unnecessary landfilling of recyclable materials, is the cost savings
being offered. As previously mentioned, recycled materials tend to be more expensive than
virgin products. By eliminating those extra costs associated with recycled products, the Landfill
Abatement Legacy Grant will increase the public awareness and marketability of post - consumer
recycled products. By creating a larger presence of post - consumer recycled products in
community facilities, Sherburne County believes this will allow residents a chance to see quality
post- consumer recycled material, first -hand, in public facilities they utilize. The greatest
economic benefits of the Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant are the resources being saved. As we
all know, landfills do not last forever. By utilizing post- consumer recycled materials, there will
be less greenhouse gas emissions, littering problems, and valuable landfill airspace being saved.
The Legacy grant has been utilized by Sherburne County for the following County building
projects:
In October of 2008, John Menter, Public Works Director, provided a spreadsheet for the
County Board showing the recycled materials for the Sherburne County Public Works
Building in Becker. The County Board approved reimbursement in the amount of
$1,666,720.35.
• In June of 2009, the County Board approved reimbursement in the amount of
$705,926.43 for the Sherburne County Zimmerman Public Safety Building project.
In September 2009, the County Board approved reimbursement in the amount of
$71,475.00 for the ARMER 800 MHz Radio System from the landfill surcharge monies
based on using the 25% or greater recycled materials criteria.
On February 6, 2007, the Sherburne County Board of Commissioners approved Legacy Grant
funding in the amount of $173,800.00 to Santiago Township to help build a multi- purpose
facility which contains a fire station, township meeting room and a Sheriff's sub- station.
On August 21, 2007 Big Lake Township was awarded $61,000 for a 24' x 68' addition to their
town hall. The addition includes a new meeting room, new administrative office, a work area,
and a climate - controlled storage area for archived records.
September 2007 -2009, the Sherburne County Board of Commissioners approved two million
dollars over three years for the public building of the Elk River YMCA. This reduced the taxes
for the next six years and promoted recycling, helping promote a clean environment and public
awareness
In July of 2010, Livonia Township received $171,578.00 for construction of a fire station and
maintenance equipment facility.
The remaining Sherburne County cities and townships and amounts:
City of Big Lake $830,000
City of Becker $374,900
37
City of Clear Lake
$ 36,900
City of Zimmerman
$409,800
Orrock Township
$327,900
Becker Township
$425,100
Clear Lake Township
$168,000
Haven Township
$213,000
Palmer Township
$254,600
Blue Hill Township
$130,200
Baldwin Township
$609,400
In 2008, senior high students attending the schools within Sherburne County were invited to
compete in a contest to "design a logo" for the Legacy Grant. On June 10, 2008, the County
Board presented a monetary award, which was a private donation, to Travis Gumphrey, whose logo
design was chosen for the Sherburne County Landfill Abatement Legacy Program. The Board thanked
Travis for his work on the project and acknowledged the work of all students who entered a design in the
contest.
Local Newspaper articles (See attachments C, D, and E):
38
Attachment A
RAM AWARD ELIGIBILITY
Individuals or recent programs contributing to the betterment of recycling or other resource conservation
efforts in the state of Minnesota are eligible for RAM awards. A RAM member must make nominations using the
award application. Below is the list of award categories and the criteria to qualify for each category. Note: a
nominee does not need to be a RAM member.
AWARD CATEGORIES
Green Project Award
This award recognizes a special green ,project in Minnesota that has demonstrated outstanding environmental
results.
Public Service Award
This award recognizes an elected official who has demonstrated outstanding service for the betterment of
recycling and the environment.
Recycler of the Year
An individual, group, business, public entity or organization that has demonstrated outstanding service as a
recycling service provider or advocate.
Denise Kolar Award
Honoring a member of RAM who has devoted a tremendous amount of energy, goodwill and effort to benefit
RAM.
RAM Awards for 2013
• Public Service Award Sandra Colvin Roy — In recognition of demonstrating for the betterment of
recycling and the environment by advancing many initiatives for composting and recycling in the city of
Minneapolis.
• Denise Kolar Award Sandy Gunderson — in recognition of her long standing service as a board member
giving of her time and talents and always having a positive attitude working toward the betterment of
the organization.
• Recycler of the Year Award Lyell Newby. Mall of America — In recognition of your efforts to achieve one
of the highest recycling rates at one of the largest public spaces in the county.
RAM Awards for 2012
• Public Service Award Laura Hotvet - presented in recognition for your outstanding public service on the
Shorewood City Council and your continued dedication to make Shorewood and eco- friendly city.
Thank you for your leadership to your residents and reducing waste in schools.
• Denise Kolar Award Doug Lien presented in recognition of your valuable contribution to this
organization which has been an asset to growing and enhancing the promotional tools for RAM. The
environmental artwork you contributed will be used and enjoyed for years to come!
• Recycler of the Year Bill Fouks - presented in recognition for your unwavering devotion to recycling in
Minnesota and your successful management of the Carver County Environmental Center. Your efforts
have led to huge increases of recyclable, reusable, compostable, and hazardous materials being
diverted from landfills. Thank you for your time, effort, and dedication!
• Green Project Award ChIsago County Environmental Services presented in recognition of your
trailblazing alternative energy efforts at your Household Hazardous Waste Facility. Within one year of
instal lation, the solar array produced over 50% of energy consumed at the facility and has paved the
way for new alternative energy projects.
• 2012 Good Samaritan Award - Kurt Seitzer - presented the Good Samaritan Award in recognition for
your selfless act of heroism going above and beyond the call of duty to save a life.
RAM Awards for 2011
• Public Service Award Governor Mark Dayton - In recognition for your outstanding public service as
39
• Public Service Award - Sherburne County Commissioner Rachel Leonard for her efforts to promote the
use of recycled materials in public buildings in the County.
• Recycler of the Year Award - City of Wayzata, Hennepin County Environmental Services, Randy's
• Sanitation, and NRG Processing Solutions/Specialized Environmental Technologies for the successful
curbside organics recycling program in Wayzata.
• Denise Kolar Award - Jean Lundquist for her service as Board Chair and helping on the National
Recycling Congress.
RAM Awards for 2005
• Public Service Award - Anoka County Commissioner Jim Kordiak for his efforts to promote electronics
recycling in Minnesota.
• Recycler of the Year Award - Northeastern Minnesota Mattress Recycling Program for its successful
efforts to divert mattresses from landfills in a cost- effective way.
• Denise Kolar Award - Kris Hageman and Dan Krivit for their many hours of leadership and service for the
National Recycling Congress held in Minneapolis in August 2005..
RAM Awards for 2004
• Public Service Award - Sen. Linda Higgins (D- Minneapolis) and Rep. Ray Cox (R- Northfield) for their
efforts to promote electronics recycling in Minnesota.
• Recycler of the Year Award - Minnesota Waste Wise, 'It's in the Bag" plastic bag recycling program
• Denise Kolar Award - Mark Heieren for his many years of service to the organization,
RAM Awards for 2003
• Public Service Award - Rep. Dennis Ozment (R- Rosemount) for his support of the SCORE funding system
for recycI i rig.
• Recycler of the Year Award - LDI Fibres, for its commitment to using recycled fiber and being active in
the recycling community.
• Denise Kolar Award - Brita Sailer for her commitment to recycling in Greater Minnesota and to RAM.
RAM Awards for 2002
• Public Service Award - Sen. Leonard Price (D- Woodbury) for his support of the SCORE funding system
for recycling.
• Recycler of the Year Award - Brian Sams, Redwood County, for his extraordinary and creative efforts in
achieving a 60 +% recycling rate In Redwood County.
• Denise Kolar Award - Susan Bast, Dakota Valley Recycling, for her long -time service on the board and for
the organization.
RAM Awards for 2001
• Public Service Award - Dan Schoepke, Washington County; Denise Rotty, Dakota Electric Association;
Susan Bast, Cities of Burnsville & Eagan; Ron Lifson & Myrna Rustad. LDl Fibres Inc.; Dawn Nibbe, Liberty
Carton; Joan Archer, Minnesota Soft Drink Association
• Recycler of the Year Award - Liberty Diversified Industries
• Denise Kolar Award - Kristin Pierskalla. Hennepin County Environmental Services for her efforts to
promote recycling, recycled products, and America Recycles Day.
40
Attachment S
From the Governor
For 17 years, the Governor's Awards have publicly recognized exceptional environmental
programs and projects throughout the great state of Minnesota. The organizations we
honor today have discovered unique ways to prevent waste and pollution through creativ-
ity, innovation and resourcefulness while often increasing efficiencies at the same time.
We thank them for their commitment to environmental excellence. My administration ap-
preciates organizations like these that take responsibility for reducing waste and improving
our environment. Their efforts set a shining example for others to follow.
While great strides are being made in this area, much work remains. We must continuously
work to educate and inspire more Minnesota businesses and communities to reduce waste
and pollution. Together, I know we can succeed.
On behalf of the state of Minnesota, I congratulate today's winners and thank them for their
innovative work that not only benefits their organizations and Minnesota's environment,
but all of our citizens and future generations.
Governor Tim Pawlenty
41
Honorable Mention
The City of Elk River -
Elk River Public Library
The Elk River Library is a LEED Gold
registered project. From the early stages,
the project aimed to embody a high level
of sustainable design and support the city's
commitment to energy efficiency.
• More than 25% of the building materials
contains recycled content.
• At least 10% of the building materials are
from local sources.
• Water- saving technologies, including
landscape design, reduce on -site irrigation
by 50%,
• Low -flow fixtures inside the building
provide a potable water savings of 30%.
• Energy efficiency designs are 60% more
efficient than standard building code.
• 100% of the metal, concrete, cardboard,
and wood waste from the construction
project was recycled, resulting in a 58%
diversion from area landfills.
The City of Farmington -
Green Team
The Cityof Farmington's Green Team is a
volunteer committee of city employees
assembled to create and implement
Initiatives that will promote environmental
awareness and responsibility.
The Green Team is evaluating existing
policies and developing new policies and
procedures to include environmentally
responsible practices to reduce waste and
conserve natural resources. The team has
already worked on new standards for park
equipment, enhancing internal and external
recycling and waste reduction efforts,
and installing energy - efficient lighting.
Staff have also worked on environmental
landscaping to minimize mowing and
improve water quatIry.The team was
instrumental in establishing sustainable
building design standards, which to date
have saved over $33,250 per year.
Minnesota Army Reserve
National Guard - Antifreeze
Recycling Program
The Minnesota Army National Guard
(MNARNG) Combined Support and
Maintenance Shop (CSMS) located on
Camp Ripley provides vehicle maintenance
support for a wide variety of wheeled and
track equipment.
As with any type of vehicle maintenance
facility working on cooling systems,
replacing dirty antifreeze with clean
antifreeze is an expensive process. An
antifreeze distillation unit was purchased
to address this issue. The unit would clean
dirty antifreeze so that MNARNG would not
need to purchase as much new antifreeze
in the future. For every 55 gallons of dirty
antifreeze collected, approximately 20
gallons of antifreeze can be recovered.
CSMS distills their own antifreeze as well
as antifreeze from all other MNARNG repair
facilities.
This process helps the environment because
less ethylene glycol needs to be produced
and fewer air and water pollutants will be
released. Direct cost savings will start be
accrue in less than four years.
Minnesota Army Reserve
National Guard - Mattress
Recycling Program
Camp Ripley needed to replace several
thousand mattresses that were stored in
over 400 different buildings. In prior years,
small numbers of mattresses had been sent
to the Morrison County landfill. However,
with the large amount of mattresses
requiring disposal, Camp Ripley choose to
recycle the mattresses through a recycling
program run by Goodwill Industries out of
Duluth, Minnesota.
Approximately 40,000 pounds of metal was
recycled and 100,000 pounds of cotton fill
was recovered. Recycling the mattresses
saved Camp Ripley nearly $32,000,
42
Olmsted County - Surplus Copier
Partnership Program
Olmsted County initiated a partnership
contract with the local United Way agency
and copier contractor, E.O. Johnson, to
provide out -of -date copiers at no cost
to nonprofit agencies when the county
replaced its old copiers, which may have an
additional 2 to 5 years of service.
The contractor agreed to refurbish and store
the copiers until needed, and to provide a
reasonable copier maintenance program.
Other agencies in Minnesota donate copiers
as well, but Olmsted created a contract
that expedites the process, resulting in
the nonprofit receiving the copier much
quicker. This contract serves as a great
alternative to sending the copiers to a
landfill and helps nonprofit organizations
use their money for alternative needs.
Sherburne County Solid Waste
Department - Landfill Abatement
Legacy Grant
As a part of its policy to reduce Sherburne
County's dependence on landfilling, the
county's Board of Commissioners adopted
the Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant
Program, which will award grants to local
units of government for using at least 25%
post- consumer recycled content materials
in construction of city- or township -owned
buildings.
The grant program is believed to be the first
of its kind in Minnesota, and offers residents
an opport unity to learn more about
recycled- content materials. It also increases
the marketabilityof recycled material and
will encourage more manufacturers to create
products from recycled materials. Over
100 companies in Minnesota incorporate
post - consumer recycled material in their
manufacturing, and Sherburne County
helps these companies by providing them
an opportunity to showcase their products
in municipal building construction. So far,
three Landfill Abatement Legacy Grants
have been awarded.
Attachment C
M E 7 M
FY ik Slsrrqundaig Cmnmunttlrs
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1100,2 ieW pishibution to B -Vk - EM?. take • Cx take • thtock PWr • Santiago • E St. OuW • M &M • y;M= M
MAIN MENU
About UsNews SportsEditodalLegalsAnnouncementsQbitsPoliceSherilf
COUNTY REVISES LEGACY GRANT
Sai. 05123f2009 - 08.47 admin
Cities and townships in Sherburne County looking to lake advantage of the countys Landfill Abatement Legacy
Grant will have new rules to Follow.
Tuesday, the county board approved changes to the program that gives more Incentive to use a higher percentage
of recycled materials in construction projects.
The program, instituted in 2007, gives one -time grants to cities and townships that use a certain percentage of
recycled materials in their building projects. Under the old formula, reimbursement was based on the value or cost of
the recycled materials.
Tuesday, Solid Waste Administrator David Lucas said the proposed changes would incorporate a five -tier sliding
scale based on the percentage of recycled content in a product.
For example, a product with 10 1019°/ recycled content and a minimum of 5 % past - consumer material would a be
given a 50% cost reimbursement. A product with 80 to 100% recycled content and a minimum of 25% post
consumer material would gel 100% reimbursement.
Lucas said the new formula would provide incentives to use material with the highest percentage of recycled content.
"The changes are keeping with the spirit and intent of this program, which is to encourage the highest use of
recycled building materials, thereby reducing our dependence on fandfilling," he said.
Big Lake Twp. used the Legacy Grant for its town hall expansion project in 2007. Santiago Twp. and Elk River also
look advantage of the program and county used it for the new public works building in Becker.
43
Attachment D
Box 175, 29 Lake Slreel South, Big Lakes RAN 55309
•703.263.3602 wvcsrrsb as rt)te[.net
LEGACY GRANT FUN DS'GREEN' PROJECTS
Sun, 0713012606-- 520am adman
By Ken Francis
On Feb. 21, the Sherburne County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a plan spearheaded by
Commissioner Rachel Leonard that would use solid waste funds and the Jail Enterprise Fund to help pay for local
government projects that meet specific Funding criteria.
County staff was directed to put together guidelines for the program, which would award grant money for projects
that used green (recycled) materials in public buildings. The grant amount would be based on the population of the
city or township applying for the grant.
At the last commissioner meeting, Administrator Brian Bensen outlined the details of the program.
"We have two important things to do with this (landfill) money. One is to make sure it stays available long -term
protecting taxpayers and nearby residents from environmental dangers," he said "The second is to do what we can
to encourage ways to stop excessive Ian dfi Ili ng. That's what this would do, provide incentive for local governments to
build buildings with recycled materials."
The program would award up to $1 million in Landfill Abatement Legacy Grants each year, with the successful
applicant reimbursed following completion of the project. Projects above $1 million will be paid over a two -year
period. Each jurisdiction is eligible for one grant only.
Projects must meet a standard of at least 25% post- consumer materials to qualify as a "green" product. Grant
recipients will be eligible for reimbursement only on the cost of the green materials. Green products could include,
but are not limited to, recycled concrete, wood, wood products, plastics, fiber materials, reclaimed and re- milled
lumber, reprocessed paint and milled bituminous.
Grant applications may be reviewed by the Solid Waste Committee or Building and Purchasing Committee, with final
action by the county board.
Based on 2004 population figures, the City of Big Lake would be eligible for an $830,000 grant. big Lake Twp. could
receive $754,400. The City of Becker could get $374,900 and Becker Twp. is eligible for $425,100.
Maximum grants to other townships include: Baldwin - $669,400; Blue Hill - $130,200; Clear Lake $188,000; Haven
$213,000; Livonia - $499.200; Orrock - $327,900; Palmer - $254,600 and Santiago - $173.800.
Elk River's total is capped at $2 million. Other cities in the county could receive; Clear Lake - $36,900; Zimmerman -
$409,800; Princeton $5,900 and St. Cloud - $666,000.
Bensen said there are still more details to work out with the program, such as dealing with joint projects between a
city and township. But the program could be on line for projects this year.
44
Attachment E
Box 275. 29 Lake Street South. Sig Lake, MN 55309
• 763 - 263.3602 �rsstribe�sherhtel.ael
COUNTY AWARDS THE 1ST LEGACY GRANT
Sur , 0211 112007 - 8:1 Sam admin
By Ken Francis
Santiago Township will be the first recipient of the county's new Landfill Abatement Legacy Grant.
Tuesday, the Sherburne County Board of Commissioners approved the township's application for funding to build a
new multi - purpose facility that will house a fire station, town meeting room and sheriffs office.
The grant program, spearheaded by Commissioner Rachel Leonard, awards up to $1 million each year to cities and
townships whose projects meet a standard of al least 25% post - consumer materials. Grant amounts are based on
population. Recipients are eligible for reimbursement only on the cost of the green materials.
Green products could include, but are not limited lo, recycled concrete, wood, wood ;products, plastics, fiber
materials. reclaimed and re- milled lumber, reprocessed paint and milled bituminous.
Michael Garland, fire board chair, told the commissioners green material will make up at least 25% of the cost of the
building. The project will be presented to the town during the annual meeting in March. Construction should begin
later in the year.
Under the terms of the grant, Santiago Twp. Is eligible to receive up to $173,800.
"It's a marvelous moment," said Commissioner Leonard. "For a year and a half we have struggled as a county board
with the inception of the idea of a legacy grant. I'm very excited about this moment
After approving Santiago's application, the board voted to amend the Legacy Grant application form to clear up
vague language.
Solid Waste Officer David Lucas said based on applications received, it was apparent there was some confusion
about the intent of the grant.
"The Santiago grant allowed us to go through this process and identify what changes are needed in the application
form," he said. "One thing that became clear was the confusing term "green." It implies energy efficiency, We have
communities out there researching energy efficient materials and not focusing on post- consumer and pre - consumer
recycled materials."
He said the intent was to encourage the use of recycled materials - not necessarily energy - efficient materials, in the
construction of municipal projects.
The new language also allows more than one grant to be awarded each year if the total is within the established
budget of $1 million.
45
RecylingTossible in Every Household
Ace Recycling offered a contest to their customers in 2010 to determine who did the best job of recycling. I took
this seriously since I have always recycled.
Following is how I recycle items:
Paper Products: I take boxes and break them down. This includes cereal boxes, food boxes, Kleenex boxes,
toilet and paper towel rolls. Centers of cereal boxes needed to be put in the garbage.
Cans: I rinse them out, lids are put inside the can and the paper label removed. Labels that can help other causes
such as Campbell's Soup labels were saved for schools, etc.
Plastic Containers: I rinse them out, flatten them down and the plastic lids are removed and taken elsewhere
for recycling; in my case, to my Church.
Plastic bags: are recycled at the local stores where they have recycling bins. This includes bread bags, etc.
Glass bottles: are rinsed out and labels removed.
Clothing: I cut off the buttons and bring them to the elementary schools for games, crafts, sorting education
such as by sizes, colors, numbers of holes, shapes, and for making jewelry. Clothing can be given to quilters, rug
weavers, and be used for rags. If the clothing is in good shape, it can be given to Good Will or the Salvation Ar-
my. Belts and shoes can also be given to these places.
Eye glasses and hearing aids: can be donated to the Lions Club.
Printer ink cartridges: can be recycled.
Old phones: can be taken to various organizations such as a battered woman's shelter.
Books: are taken to local libraries, nursing homes, hospitals and schools.
Old biodegradable food: goes out to my woods for wild critters. Some people do compost food items
I live for recycling and hope I make a difference. I buy things that can be recycled. As a side benefit, I
earned a "winner" sticker for Ace Garbage with $100.00 included. That was a bonus I didn't expect. I urge oth-
ers to do likewise. It takes a little time to make a big difference to our environment.
Shari Vensland
Zimmerman, MN
46